2027 International Women's Day Leadership Conference
Early bird tickets now available until Jan. 15, 2027
Wednesday, March 10, 2027
8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Science Commons Atrium
4401 University Drive W, Lethbridge, AB
Parking Information:
Ticket price includes parking in Lot N. Please display on dash.
Click here for a full campus map.
Early bird tickets now available until Jan. 15, 2027
Wednesday, March 10, 2027
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Science Commons Atrium
4401 University Drive W, Lethbridge, AB
Parking Information:
Ticket price includes parking in Lot N. Please display on dash.
Click here for a full campus map.
When women rise together, communities thrive.
ULethbridge is pleased to launch its 2027 International Women’s Day Leadership Conference under the theme When Women Rise Together, Communities Thrive. This International Women’s Day, we come together to recognize the power of women, the strength of building community, and the impact we create when we rise together.
Through inspiring conversations, meaningful connections, and stories of impact, the conference will shine a light on the women who are shaping workplaces, communities, and the world around us. We will celebrate how far we have come while looking ahead to the possibilities we can create together.
Because when we support one another, lift each other up, and make space for diverse voices and experiences, our individual impact becomes collective change.
Our featured speakers will share their perspectives on leading with hope through complex times, building and innovating together so that we all can rise. By lifting each other up, we all work towards creating stronger communities that continue to challenge boundaries, inspire curiosity and spark moments of impact.
Join us for a day filled with insights, conversation and networking opportunities that will uplift, ignite and inspire.
Early Bird Ticket Deadline: Jan. 15, 2027
Final Registration Deadline: Feb. 26, 2027
Conference Agenda - March 10, 2027
8:00 a.m. | Check-in, registration and breakfast, morning networking |
9:00 a.m. | Opening Remarks Welcome and Introductions |
9:30 a.m. | Opening Keynote Dr. Waneek Horn Miller LLD '22, Olympian and Activist, Indigenous Health & Reconciliation |
10:30 a.m. | Morning Break, Networking Icebreaker |
10:45 a.m. | Leadership Panel Fireside Chat Dr. Bernadine (Bernie) Boulet (BEd '88, LLD '25) |
Noon | Lunch Break |
1:00 p.m. | Wellness Reset |
1:15 p.m. | Closing Keynote Dr. Jessica Riddell, Founder, Hope Circuits Institute, Professor, Bishop's University |
2:15 p.m. | Closing Remarks 2027 Conference Announcement |
2:20 p.m. | Post Conference Activities Book Signing & Networking Event |
ULethbridge is currently accepting sponsorship opportunities for this event.
The University of Lethbridge seeks to build ongoing relationships and partnerships to elevate this event and highlight the impact of corporate philanthropy within our community. If this aligns with your strategic vision, we would love to partner with you!
“Attending the International Women's Day Conference has been a fantastic opportunity to learn from women engaging in advocacy and community building across Canada, while also connecting with local women and community organizations beyond the University of Lethbridge. Events like this have brought me a greater sense of how local communities and universities can support and uplift each other. I have had the opportunity to attend the International Women's Day Conference as both an undergraduate and graduate student and I cannot recommend the event enough!”
- Lily Overacker (BA '25)
OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Waneek Horn-Miller (LLD '22)
Waneek Horn-Miller is a Mohawk Olympian from Kahnawake, Quebec, and a passionate advocate for Indigenous sport, wellness, leadership and community building. A survivor of the 1990 Oka Crisis, Waneek transformed a near-death experience into a journey of resilience and achievement, becoming co-captain of Canada’s Olympic women’s water polo team.
Recognized as one of Canada’s most influential women in sport, she has worked with the Assembly of First Nations to advance Indigenous health and fitness initiatives. She also serves as director of the Storyboot Project with Manitobah Mukluks. In 2022, Waneek received an honorary degree from the University of Lethbridge.
Lethbridge Leaders Fireside Chat
Dr. Bernadine (Bernie) Boulet, BEd '88, LLD '25
Co-founder, Green Shirt Day
Bernie Boulet, a former Pronghorns women’s soccer player and retired educator, is a passionate advocate for organ donation. Alongside her husband Toby, she co-founded Green Shirt Day in honour of their son Logan, inspiring Canadians to discuss and register for organ donation.
Through national partnerships and advocacy, they helped advance organ donation awareness and legislation in Alberta, contributing to the creation of Give Life Alberta. In 2025, Bernie received an honorary degree from the University of Lethbridge.
Ashley Day Chief (BASc '14)
Chief Operations Officer and Co-owner, AdvancedAg Inc.
Ashley is the COO and co-owner of AdvancedAg Inc., a University of Lethbridge Senate member and Past Chair of the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce. She has also served on Raymond’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee.
Recognized for her leadership and entrepreneurship, Ashley received the 2023 Young Business Professional Award and 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Award. In 2025, she was inducted into the University of Lethbridge Alumni Honour Society.
Karen Reid (BMgt '86)
Chair, Board of Governors, ULethbridge
Karen Reid is the University of Lethbridge’s 12th Board Chair and the first woman to hold the position. She is the Chief Financial Officer at Charlton & Hill Limited and previously served on the University’s Board of Governors from 2018 to 2024, including as Vice-Chair.
Recognized as a Fellow of both the Certified Management Accountants and Chartered Professional Accountants, Karen is also a dedicated community volunteer, supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters and chairing its annual Golf for Kids Sake fundraiser for more than 20 years.
CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Jessica Riddell
Dr. Jessica Riddell is a Full Professor at Bishop’s University and the inaugural Stephen A. Jarislowsky Chair of Undergraduate Teaching Excellence. A nationally recognized educator and higher education leader, she advocates for universities that foster human and ecological flourishing.
Founder of the Hope Circuits Institute and author of Hope Circuits: Rewiring Universities for Human Flourishing, she serves on the Board of Directors of the American Association of Colleges and Universities. Her honours include the 3M National Teaching Fellowship (2015) and election to the Royal Society of Canada College of New Scholars (2025).
Our Hosts
Dr. Dena McMartin
Vice-President Research, University of Lethbridge
Dr. Dena McMartin is the Vice-President (Research) at the University of Lethbridge and a leading researcher in rural and agricultural water management. A Professional Engineer and Professional Agrologist, she collaborates with industry, government and communities to address water quality and sustainability challenges.
With more than 20 years of research experience in oil sands water remediation, she serves on the International St. Mary and Milk Rivers Study Board and several science and innovation boards. At ULethbridge, she champions research, innovation and creative scholarship while advancing diversity in science and engineering.
Dr. Michelle Helstein
Provost and Vice-President Academic, University of Lethbridge
Dr. Michelle Helstein is the Provost and Vice-President (Academic) at the University of Lethbridge, bringing extensive experience in research and academic leadership. Since joining ULethbridge in 2003, she has held several senior roles, including Interim Deputy Provost, Associate Dean and Acting Dean of Arts & Science.
Her research explores the connections between sport, popular culture and broader social issues, with a focus on the representation of female athletes. She is also a dedicated advocate for student research and graduate education.
Martha Mathurin-Moe
Vice-Provost, Accessibility, Belonging and Community, University of Lethbridge
Martha Mathurin-Moe is the Vice-Provost of Accessibility, Belonging and Community at the University of Lethbridge. Originally from Saint Lucia, she brings extensive experience in finance, human resources and international education, along with a diverse academic background.
A recipient of the University of Regina’s 2016 President’s Award for Service Excellence, Martha is a passionate advocate for inclusive learning environments, equitable workplaces and meaningful representation for students of all backgrounds.
We can't wait for you to join us at this wonderful conference!
Please reach out to our Accessibility, Belonging and Community Office with any questions: belonging@uleth.ca.
